ApoE deficiency protects from mRNA vaccine-induced mitochondrial dysfunction at the injection site under metabolic stress

Abstract

Rationale: The local tissue effects of mRNA vaccination remain incompletely understood. We investigated how SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination impacts injection site tissues in the context of different metabolic states and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) status. Methods: We administered intramuscular SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination to wild-type and ApoE-deficient mice under regular and high-fat diets, as well as macaques. We performed transcriptomic analysis, ultrastructural examination, functional assessments including grip strength testing, and immunological evaluations to characterize local and systemic responses. Results: Intramuscular vaccination induced localized injury characterized by inflammation, mitochondrial disruption, and reduced grip strength in wild-type animals. Transcriptomic and ultrastructural analyses revealed denervation-associated changes, downregulation of mitochondrial genes, cristae disruption, and activation of immune and apoptotic pathways. ApoE-deficient mice, particularly under Western diet conditions, demonstrated protection from mitochondrial and inflammatory responses despite comparable vaccine expression levels. This protection involved attenuated mitochondrial gene downregulation, preserved mitochondrial DNA integrity, and reduced inflammatory responses. While ApoE deficiency resulted in diminished antibody production, T cell responses remained intact, indicating selective immunomodulation. Cardiac tissue showed minimal transcriptional changes, confirming injection site-specific effects. Conclusions: ApoE deficiency provides protection against vaccine-induced mitochondrial and inflammatory damage at the injection site, with enhanced protective effects under metabolic stress conditions. These findings reveal important interactions between metabolic status, lipid metabolism, and local vaccine responses that may inform vaccination strategies in different patient populations.